What is freshwater?

Freshwater is a term used to describe bodies of water that have low salinity levels, typically less than 1%. This includes lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, and wetlands. Freshwater is essential for all forms of life, including humans, as it is used for drinking, irrigation, and various industrial and agricultural purposes.

Freshwater is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are unique to these ecosystems. These habitats are important for biodiversity and provide valuable ecosystem services, such as water filtration, erosion control, and flood regulation.

However, freshwater resources are increasingly under pressure due to pollution, overuse, and habitat destruction. Climate change is also exacerbating these challenges, leading to changes in precipitation patterns and an increase in extreme weather events.

It is important to manage and conserve freshwater resources sustainably to ensure their continued availability for future generations. This includes protecting and restoring freshwater habitats, improving water quality, and implementing efficient water management practices.